Hydrolyzed Opuntia Ficus-Indica Flower Extract is derived from the flowers of the Opuntia ficus-indica cactus through a hydrolysis process. This extract is used in cosmetics and personal care products for its enhanced bioavailability and efficacy, providing various skin benefits.
Chemical Composition and Structure:
Hydrolyzed Polysaccharides: Smaller, more bioavailable mucilages from the Opuntia ficus-indica flowers, offering superior moisturizing and soothing properties.
Vitamins: Includes Vitamin C and Vitamin E, providing antioxidant protection and supporting skin health.
Flavonoids and Phenolic Compounds: Enhanced antioxidant effects due to the hydrolysis process.
Amino Acids: Contribute to skin repair and regeneration.
Minerals: Contains magnesium, calcium, and potassium, which are beneficial for skin nourishment.
The hydrolysis process breaks down the larger compounds in the flower extract into smaller, more effective components.
Physical Properties:
Appearance: Typically a clear to light yellow liquid, depending on the hydrolysis process.
Odor: Mild, with a fresh, floral scent.
Texture: Light and slightly viscous, easily absorbed by the skin.
Production Process:
The production of Hydrolyzed Opuntia Ficus-Indica Flower Extract involves:
Extraction: Obtaining the raw extract from the flowers of the Opuntia ficus-indica cactus.
Hydrolysis: Using hydrolytic enzymes to break down the larger compounds into smaller, more bioavailable components.
Purification: Ensuring the extract is free from impurities and contaminants.
Formulation: Incorporating the hydrolyzed extract into cosmetic and skincare products.
Applications:
Cosmetics: Used in serums, creams, and masks for its enhanced moisturizing, anti-aging, and soothing properties.
Personal Care Products: Added to lotions and treatments to improve skin hydration and texture.
Medical: May be included in therapeutic formulations for its advanced skin benefits.
Food: Not commonly used in food products.
Environmental and Safety Considerations:
Hydrolyzed Opuntia Ficus-Indica Flower Extract is generally regarded as safe for topical application. However, like all extracts, it should be used according to established guidelines to avoid potential allergic reactions or skin irritations. Individuals with allergies or sensitive skin should exercise caution. It is important to ensure that the extract is sustainably sourced and free from harmful chemicals.
INCI Functions:
Abrasive agent. It contains abrasive particles to remove stains or biofilm that accumulate on the stratum corneum or teeth. Baking soda, kieselguhr, silica and many others have abrasive properties. Peeling or exfoliating products used in dermatology or cosmetic applications contain abrasive agents in the form of synthetic microspheres, however, these microspheres, or abrasive particles may not be biodegradable and create pollution in aquatic ecosystems.
Skin protectant. It creates a protective barrier on the skin to defend it from harmful substances, irritants, allergens, pathogens that can cause various inflammatory conditions. These products can also improve the natural skin barrier and in most cases more than one is needed to achieve an effective result.
Synonyms:
CAS: CAS 90082-21-6 EC number 290-109-1